Tips on writing a 500-word personal statement essay

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By Sylvie Diane Dobrota

1. Brainstorm themes or stories you want to focus on. Start by brainstorming different themes in your life (volunteering, arts, interest in storytelling, etc) Choose 1 or 2 themes you want to focus on.

2. It should be personal.  It can feel a little risky to write, and reveal yourself. Remember, we want to get to know you!

3. Answer the prompt. Make sure that you essay addresses all aspects of the question(s).

4. Show don’t tell. Rather than saying that you are passionate about health care, share a story about an important or impactful moment that furthered your interests in health care.

5. Just start writing. Set aside 20 minutes to begin writing. Sometimes getting past a blank page can get ideas flowing.

Have someone who knows you well read the draft. They can let you know if they think it sounds like you or not.

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